Food insecurity continues to affect many families in Ohio, jeopardizing their physical and mental health.
Ohio’s food insecurity rate slightly exceeds the national average at 12.8%. Southern counties face the highest rates.
Ohio State nutritionist and food security specialist Irene Hatsu explores the connections between food and nutrition. She says food insecurity affects physical and emotional well-being.
“Our research right now is showing that there is a complete direct link between eating healthy and having good mental health outcomes,” says Hatsu.
Mary Rodriguez, an Ohio State social scientist, leads communities through change, working with New American groups to tackle food security and poverty challenges.
“I sit and work with them to see the ‘So what?’ of the research, to really take that data and say, ‘What can we do with this that will benefit the community?’ ”
– Mary Rodriguez
Rodriguez has worked with families, women and farmers, even traveling abroad to collaborate with a Somali group, combating this issue domestically and internationally.
Through these efforts, communities are making strides toward better health and nutrition options, with hope for the assurance of security as improvements continue.